Credov's researched list of the 3 faults the Mercedes-Benz Valente is known for (2005–2014), 3 of them serious or costly. Each one says what to look for when you check the car, so you can spot it before you buy. Not every car has these faults: they are the ones worth checking on this model.
What to look for: Check the wheel arch lips, door bottoms, sliding door and tailgate, and the roof and gutters from above.
Why it matters: Roof racks, ladders and conversion fittings break the paint and start rust under them, and bad rust on the roof gutters, sills or rear chassis rails is expensive panel and paint work.
What to look for: With the engine running, listen for ticking or chuffing near the injectors, and look for black crust with a torch.
Why it matters: Left alone, the injectors seize in the head and the gases corrode the injector bores, turning a cheap seal job into injector extraction or head work.
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What to look for: With a torch, look down the back of the engine between the heads and at the bellhousing for oil.
Why it matters: Oil pools in the valley and runs down the back of the engine onto the gearbox bellhousing, and the job to fix it means removing the intake and turbo, so it is a big labour bill even though the seals are cheap.
Got a question about a Mercedes-Benz Valente? Ask Credov: a noise, a warning light, a part or how to fix it.
On top of the faults above, every Credov inspection covers the basics: fuel smell, leaks or filler rust, engine oil leaks, power steering fluid leak, drive belt cracks or squeal, rust underneath: chassis and mounts, engine mounts, engine oil level and colour, coolant level, colour and leaks, head gasket failure signs, cold start: rattle, knock or smoke, rough or hunting idle, engine running hot on gauge, gearbox or diff oil leak, swapped gearbox without lvv and more.
Researched by Credov from manufacturer recalls and service bulletins, owner reports and workshop sources. Repair prices are typical ranges, not quotes. See also fault codes and repair costs.